An adjunct English professor describes growing fear and pressure inside today’s college classrooms.
Nearly a decade ago, while teaching in Texas, she adjusted to strict campus gun policies and tense political debates. Even then, discussions about free speech and firearms felt heavy, but manageable. She built her courses around critical thinking, encouraging students to examine political rhetoric and complex social issues.
In recent years, however, she says the climate has changed. New state laws and political actions aimed at limiting discussions of race, gender and diversity have created uncertainty for educators. According to advocacy groups, dozens of bills restricting higher education have been introduced or passed across the country.
Now teaching in California, she feels the same tension. Professors across the U.S. have faced backlash or dismissal over classroom comments. She says many educators practice self-censorship to avoid controversy, fearing complaints or professional consequences.
As an adjunct, she also faces long commutes, low pay and no job security. The combination of political pressure and unstable working conditions has left her exhausted and discouraged.
Despite this, she remains committed to teaching writing as a path to critical thought. She believes reading, careful analysis and open discussion are essential in a divided society. Still, she wonders how long educators can continue under increasing strain, and what the future holds for academic freedom in America.